ABOUT US


Welcome to The Tea Workshop
Founded in 2023 in Chicago, The Tea Workshop was created in response to the closure of countless tea spaces across North America. Our mission is simple: build tea infrastructure—the places, tools, and support systems the tea community needs to thrive.
Our mission is first and foremost to create real-world tea spaces (tea bars, cafés, community hubs).
- We host live, experiential shows that welcome newcomers and deepen knowledge.
- We’re building a pipeline that supports tea professionals and facilitators for the long haul.
- Our developing distribution platform champions small and mid-sized providers who tell farmers’ stories with integrity.
Because tea’s future shouldn’t hinge on fragile leases or one landlord’s whim, we focus on durable systems so people who care about tea can build careers and communities with dignity.
Our values are simple: equity, dignity, and human connection—stakeholders, not just shareholders—and work that says something, is compelling above all else, and brings back the magic these spaces provide.
When you buy tea, attend a show, or partner with us, you’re investing in the next generation of tea spaces. That’s why we’re different—and if you ask us, that’s pretty special.



2023
WELCOME TO THE WORKSHOP
Founded in 2023 in Chicago, The Tea Workshop was created in response to the closure of countless tea spaces across North America. Our mission is simple: build tea infrastructure—the places, experiences, tools, support systems, and magic that community needs to thrive.
Our first year, we turned a bare warehouse into the 2023 Summer Tea Sessions—a multi-night event series of tea and cocktails that proved people want something real.

2024
LIVE SHOW + ONLINE EXPANSION
On the road to opening real spaces, The Workshop leveled up: we added a Halloween Live Show to our Summer Series and launched an online marketplace. 3 teas with unusual and spooky stories, a full magic show, and a live jazz band. The Workshop pushed what is considered possible in tea experiences.

2025
LIVE MARKETS
This last year the Workshop has positioned itself to expand commercially on the path to its first physical space by becoming the exclusive tea vendor for the Evanston Farmers Market alongside major events including Randolph Street Market, Hob Nob Springfield, and Vintage House. Vending at events with thousands of attendees Workshop staff still whisk each matcha by hand and make all syrups in house. Commercial scale while maintaining quality far above standard.
The Tea Workshop's story is just beginning and every tea you buy and cup you steep builds a better tomorrow. Join us online or in person and together we will build something incredible.
Steep with Purpose.